Picking the right kitchen sink is crucial for both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Whether you're renovating your kitchen or selecting a sink for a new home, factors such as material, size, mounting style and durability all play an important role. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to consider when buying the perfect kitchen sink.
1. Kitchen Sink Materials: Which One is Right for You?
What your kitchen sink is made from affects its durability, maintenance and overall look. The most popular materials are:
Stainless Steel Sinks
A top choice for modern kitchens, stainless steel sinks are durable, resistant to heat and easy to clean.
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Franke Stainless Steel Sinks – Vary from 16-gauge (commercial grade) to 20-gauge, providing a balance of durability and lightweight design.
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Abode Stainless Steel Sinks – Manufactured from 18-gauge stainless steel for optimal wear and longevity.
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Blanco Stainless Steel Sinks – Available in 18-20 gauge, balancing strength with a sleek, modern look.
Opting for 16- or 18-gauge stainless steel ensures a premium, long-lasting sink, while 20-gauge is a lighter, more cost-effective alternative for less demanding kitchen use.
Granite Composite Sinks
Highly durable and scratch-resistant, these sinks offer a sleek, stone-like appearance and come in various colours.
At The Tap Specialist, we offer premium granite composite sinks, including:
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Franke Fragranite Sinks – Offering great durability with a stylish matt finish.
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Ellsi Comite Sinks – A perfect balance of aesthetics and performance for contemporary kitchens.
Ceramic Sinks
Ideal for traditional and farmhouse-style kitchens, ceramic sinks provide a classic look but do require careful handling to prevent chips.
Fireclay Sinks
A more durable alternative to ceramic, fireclay sinks are highly resistant to stains, scratches and heat. They marry a timeless aesthetic with modern resilience.
At The Tap Specialist, we stock premium Fireclay kitchen sinks from Abode and Shaws of Darwen, providing elegant and durable options for both traditional and modern kitchens.
2. Sink Mounting Styles: Which Suits Your Kitchen?
The way your sink is installed can impact cleaning, aesthetics and usability.
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Undermount Sinks – Installed below the countertop for a seamless look and easy clean-up. Ideal for granite and quartz worktops.
Blanco Undermount Sink:
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Top-Mount (Drop-In) Sinks – Easy to install and budget-friendly, these sinks sit on top of the worktop.
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Belfast & Butler Sinks – Perfect for farmhouse-style kitchens, these large, deep sinks both make a statement and offer practicality.
Abode Butler Sink:
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Integrated or ‘Flushmount’ Sinks – A seamless option for modern kitchens, these are made from the same material as the worktop for a sleek finish. Shop Flushmount Kitchen sinks here
Explore our Franke Mythos Undermount Sinks for a premium undermount option designed to minimise water and dish noise for a quieter kitchen environment.
3. Size & Configuration: Single vs. Double Bowl?
The size and bowl configuration of your sink should match your kitchen space and cooking needs.
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Single Bowl Sinks – Ideal for smaller kitchens or those who prefer a large, uninterrupted sink space.
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Double Bowl Sinks – Great for multitasking, allowing you to wash dishes in one bowl while rinsing in the other.
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1.5 Bowl Sinks – A versatile choice with a small secondary bowl for rinsing or food prep.
4. Depth & Gauge: Why Does it Matter?
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Depth: Deeper sinks (8–10 inches) are great for washing large pots and pans, while shallower sinks are better for accessibility and minimising water usage.
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Gauge: Stainless steel sinks come in various thicknesses:
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16-gauge – The thickest and most durable, often used in commercial kitchens.
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18-gauge – A perfect balance of durability and affordability (used in Abode sinks).
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20-gauge – A lighter option, still durable but best for domestic kitchen use (Blanco’s range includes 18-20 gauge options).
5. Additional Features to Consider
To enhance convenience and functionality, consider these add-ons:
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Drainage & Waste Kits – Ensure smooth water flow and prevent clogging.
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Integrated Drainers – Help keep worktops dry and clean.
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Tap Compatibility – Choose a sink that fits your desired tap style (boiling water tap, pull-out spray etc.).
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Noise Reduction Technology – If you prefer a quieter kitchen, look for sinks with integrated soundproofing.
Franke Maris Quiet Bowl Kitchen Sink:
For advanced noise-reducing solutions, check out:
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Franke Mythos Undermount Sinks – Featuring Noise-Reduction Technology to minimise water and dish noise.
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Franke Maris Quiet Bowl Sinks – Designed for silent dishwashing with enhanced sound insulation.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right kitchen sink involves more than just aesthetics—it’s about finding a balance between functionality, durability and style. Whether you need a stainless steel sink for a modern kitchen, a high-performance granite composite sink, or a classic fireclay sink, The Tap Specialist offers a curated selection of high-quality sinks to suit every home.
Explore our range of high-end kitchen sinks:
👉 Browse our collection here
